Lighting Up The Room With The Fortis Novonaut N-42 TR Series

The watch that immediately comes to mind when discussing Fortis is undoubtedly the B-42 Cosmonauts Chronograph. A favorite among space-loving watch enthusiasts, it accompanied cosmonauts on Soyuz TM-19 missions and subsequent missions aboard the Mir space station and the ISS between 1994 and 2003. In 2023, Fortis introduced the latest evolution of that legendary watch — the Novonaut N-42. Since then, the brand has added just two limited editions, keeping the collection relatively small. Now, however, three new models nearly double the number of available options. Their distinguishing feature? Fully luminous dials that make a striking impression in the dark.

I have a soft spot for the Fortis Novonaut N-42. Its spaceflight credentials make it special, while its functional design gives it plenty of character. It’s easily my favorite collection from the brand. I reviewed the original stainless steel models when they launched in 2023, followed by the limited-edition Novonaut N-42 Titanium Legacy two years later. In between, I also got to try the AMADEE-24 Mars Analog Mission Timer, a 100-piece limited edition created for the 2024 mission.

The details of the new Fortis Novonaut N-42 TR series

Previous Novonaut models featured dark dials, but the new TR series takes a different approach. The three watches retain the familiar design and specifications while introducing full LumiCast X1 base dials. The result is a trio of panda chronographs with a distinctive luminous twist. As you might expect, this change is about more than aesthetics; it also serves a practical purpose.

The Novonaut N-42 has a 42mm stainless steel case with a 44mm bezel, a 15mm total thickness, and a 51mm lug-to-lug. Water-resistant to 200 meters, the case features a screw-down crown at 3 o’clock, flanked by two modern chronograph pushers.

The case has a fully brushed finish, complemented by a bidirectional bezel. Halo Black, Halo Blue, or Halo Green bezel inserts are available, each matching the corresponding strap. White Super-LumiNova X1 markings on each bezel insert provide additional visibility in the dark.

The LumiCast X1 dials shine bright

On the LumiCast X1 base dial are three bezel-matching sub-dials with non-luminous white numerals and markings. The layout follows the familiar Valjoux 7750 arrangement, with these sub-dials at 6, 9, and 12 o’clock and a day-date display at 3 o’clock. A 60-second countdown scale, also matching the bezel insert, runs along the angular rehaut.

The familiar hands, filled with dial-matching white lume, hover above. As you can see, the dials aren’t stark white but rather a subtle off-white. I like this approach because it prevents the TR series from looking sterile. The black-and-white version is one of my favorites, although all three have their appeal.

The Fortis Werk 17 powers the Novonaut

Visible through the case back’s smoked sapphire crystal is the Fortis Werk 17, the movement used in the other Novonaut N-42 models. Made by La Joux-Perret, this automatic column-wheel chronograph operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a 60-hour power reserve.

As we reported previously, La Joux-Perret developed a custom traversing bridge for increased robustness and incorporated tangential micro-screw regulation. It’s a capable movement that should handle just about anything, whether in space or on Earth.

Wearing the Fortis Novonaut N-42 TR series

On the wrist, the TR models make a strong impression. Fortis’s build quality is excellent, and the watches feel reassuringly solid. Tight tolerances reinforce the impression that they can handle any demanding conditions.

Unlike the earlier models, this trio comes on straps rather than bracelets. Each hybrid strap combines an FKM rubber lining with a textile outer layer matching the bezel color. The quality is excellent, and it balances the 115g watch head well on the wrist.

I enjoyed wearing the Novonaut on a strap. I generally prefer bracelets, and Fortis’s Block bracelet is one of the best on the market. However, the strap makes a considerable difference to the overall weight. On the bracelet, the watch weighs a hefty 225 grams.

The different color combinations also give each variant a different personality. My favorite detail of the green version is its rich, dark shade, which contrasts nicely with the light dial. The blue model, meanwhile, offers an interesting alternative to the Cobalt Blue version of the regular Novonaut N-42.

Final thoughts on the new Fortis Novonaut N-42 TR

As I’ve stated in previous articles, these watches aren’t for everyone. Their substantial dimensions and proportions make them unsuitable for smaller wrists. However, if you enjoy wearing larger watches, the Novonaut N-42 TR series has plenty to offer. The engineering and build quality match the earlier models, while the luminous dials look striking both in daylight and after dark.

If you’ve been considering a Fortis Novonaut N-42, choosing between the existing models and these three new additions just became more difficult. Alternatively, if one of the new color combinations catches your eye, the decision might be easy. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the TR series. The Halo Black and Halo Green versions are my favorites, although personal color preference plays a big role.

At €5,950 / US$5,950 / £5,950, these watches offer a compelling package for anyone looking for a robust, modern chronograph. The price aligns with the limited editions released in 2024 and 2025, and the specifications and finishing make them competitive in their segment. Fortis deserves credit for giving the Novonaut N-42 a fresh look without losing the qualities that make the collection appealing. The full-lume dial is a spectacular addition to an already impressive watch.

For more information, visit the official Fortis website.

This is a partnership post. Learn more.